Letter to Family and Friends

First and foremost, thank you all so, so, so much. These past 3 months have been an incredible roller coaster ride for the Sheppard family and to those of you that have showed us your love and support, we will forever be grateful. In times like these, it becomes clear how much people love and care for others. Thank you forever and always.

Second, we decided to write a “letter” so we can answer all of your questions and start talking about visiting the babies. This is the easiest way to respond to everyone and cover all of the things we’d like people to keep in mind when it comes to the babies. Please, please don’t be offended by any of the “rules” we’ve set up. Everything we’re asking is for the health and well-being of the babies. Everything we’re asking (well, almost everything!) is based on the recommendations of nurses and doctors. We love you all and don’t want anyone to be offended or take anything personally when it comes to helping or visiting.

So, here we go…

1.   We’d love for ALL of you to visit… but obviously, not at the same time. We’d love to throw a big party to celebrate the babies coming home, however, this would probably a very stupid thing to do. If you would like to visit, please inbox, email, call or text me. We will set up a time that works for all of us.

2.     If you’ve been sick within the last few weeks, please refrain from seeing our babies for another few weeks. Even if the illness was just a little cold, we’d prefer you wait a little while before coming over. The babies are preemies and more susceptible to illnesses. Any time an infant gets sick it can be very scary, but our babies getting sick can mean going BACK to the hospital. Needless to say, this is the last thing we want. Please don’t be offended if we ask you to wear a mask when holding the babies.

3.  We know some of you won’t like this rule, but our nurses have stressed to us that if you have not gotten your flu shot then you should not be in close contact with the babies. For example, holding the babies. The flu season is one of the worst we’ve seen and even if you aren’t sick, that doesn’t mean you can’t have those germs with you! You can still visit (as long as you aren’t sick), but no holding.

4. You will be very tempted, but please don’t kiss their faces just yet!!!

5.  Please wash your hands upon arrival and anytime you touch/hold the babies. We also have hand-sanitzer readily available for you to use!

6.  Please remember that they are preemies. They are going to be 3 months soon, but they are not considered 3 month olds. Their due date hasn’t even arrived yet! They are much more like newborns. If they are sleeping, please let them do so. They do their best growing when they are sleeping!!!

7.  So many of you have asked how you can help. Diapers are helpful. Very helpful. They are in size 1 Huggies. Please do not think I am asking for diapers here… this is only for the people who constantly ask what they can do or bring. We are in no way suggesting that you need to bring something when you visit. Your love is all the babies need!

8.  Since the flu is so bad this season, we are asking that you wait to have your little ones meet our little ones.

***Sorry if I sound like a teacher or over protective mom, but I am both of those things! Spending 3 months in the hospital with our babies has taught us a lot and we hope you all respect our wishes. Thank you and hopefully we’ll see you soon!!!